GCE A LEVEL WJEC Eduqas GCE A LEVEL in DRAMA AND THEATRE ACCREDITED BY OFQUAL SPECIFICATION Teaching from 2016 For award from 2018 This Ofqual regulated qualification is not available for candidates in maintained schools and colleges in Wales.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 1 WJEC Eduqas GCE A LEVEL in DRAMA and THEATRE For teaching from 2016 For award from 2018 Summary of assessment 2 1. Introduction 5 1.1 Aims and objectives 5 1.2 Prior learning and progression 7 1.3 Equality and fair access 7 2. Subject content 8 2.1 Component 1: Theatre Workshop 10 2.2 Component 2: Text in Action 14 2.3 Component 3: Text in Performance 19 3. Assessment 22 3.1 Assessment objectives and weightings 22 3.2 Arrangements for non-exam assessment 23 4. Technical information 28 4.1 Making entries 28 4.2 Grading, awarding and reporting 28 Appendices: 29 A: List of texts for Component 1 29 B: List of suitable theatre practitioners and theatre companies 31 C: Component 1: assessment grid 33 D: Guidance for assessing Component 1 39 E: Component 2: example stimulus materials 42 F: Component 2: assessment grids 43 Page
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 2 GCE A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE SUMMARY OF ASSESSMENT Component 1: Theatre Workshop Non-exam assessment: internally assessed, externally moderated 20% of qualification Learners will be assessed on either acting or design. Learners participate in the creation, development and of a piece of theatre based on a reinterpretation of an extract from a text chosen from a list supplied by WJEC. The piece must be developed using the techniques and working methods of either an influential theatre practitioner or a recognised theatre company. Learners must produce: a realisation of the or design a creative log. Component 2: Text in Action Non-exam assessment: externally assessed by a visiting examiner 40% of qualification Learners will be assessed on either acting or design. Learners participate in the creation, development and of two pieces of theatre based on a stimulus supplied by WJEC: 1. a devised piece using the techniques and working methods of either an influential theatre practitioner or a recognised theatre company (a different practitioner or company to that chosen for Component 1) 2. an extract from a text in a different style chosen by the learner. Learners must realise their live for the visiting examiner. Learners choosing design must also give a 5-10 minute presentation of their design to the examiner. Learners produce a process and evaluation report within one week of completion of the practical work.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 3 Component 3: Text in Performance Written examination: 2 hours 30 minutes 40% of qualification Sections A and B Open book: Clean copies (no annotation) of the two complete texts chosen must be taken into the examination. Two questions, based on two different texts, one written pre- 1956 and one written post-1956. Pre-1956: The Trojan Women, Euripides As You Like It, William Shakespeare Hedda Gabler, Henrik Ibsen Machinal, Sophie Treadwell Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Tennessee Williams Post-1956: Saved, Edward Bond Accidental Death of an Anarchist, Dario Fo Racing Demon, David Hare Love and Information, Caryl Churchill Chimerica, Lucy Kirkwood Section C Closed book: The extract of text required for answering the questions will be printed on the examination paper. A question based on a specified extract from: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, Mark Haddon, adapted by Simon Stephens Details of the 10-15 minute extract will be released during the first week of March, in the year in which the examination is to be taken. This linear qualification will be available in May/June each year. It will be awarded for the first time in summer 2018. Qualification Accreditation Number: 601/8554/5
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 5 GCE A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Aims and objectives The WJEC Eduqas A level in Drama and Theatre offers a practical and challenging course of study which encourages learners to: develop and apply an informed, analytical framework for making, performing, interpreting and understanding drama and theatre understand the place of relevant theoretical research in informing the processes and practices involved in creating theatre and the place of practical exploration in informing theoretical knowledge of drama and theatre develop an understanding and appreciation of how the social, cultural and historical contexts of texts have influenced the development of drama and theatre understand the practices used in twenty-first century theatre making experience a range of opportunities to create theatre, both published textbased and devised work participate as a theatre maker and as an audience member in live theatre understand and experience the collaborative relationship between various roles within theatre develop and demonstrate a range of theatre making skills develop the creativity and independence to become effective theatre makers adopt safe working practices as a theatre maker analyse and evaluate their own work and the work of others. The WJEC Eduqas A level in Drama and Theatre is an exciting and inspiring course which prepares learners for further study in Higher Education. This highly practical specification provides learners with the opportunity to work as either performers and/or designers on three different s. In Component 1 learners reinterpret a text to create a piece of theatre which is a combination of the selected text and original ideas. In Component 2 learners engage with a stimulus to create two pieces of theatre; one an interpretation of a text of their own choice and the other a devised piece.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 6 Both Components 1 and 2 are designed to encourage learners to make connections between dramatic theory and their own practice. While preparing their practical work, learners will explore the work of two theatre practitioners (individuals or companies) of their own choice and then apply their research to their s or designs. Learners are also required to watch at least two live theatre productions and learn about the processes and practices involved in interpreting and performing theatre. In Component 3, learners explore two complete texts and one extract from a third text. There is an exciting and diverse list of texts to choose from; centres must select one which was written before 1956 and one which was written after 1956. The WJEC Eduqas A level in Drama and Theatre specification is designed so that it can be taught alongside the WJEC Eduqas AS Drama and Theatre specification. Component 1 in the A level specification can be studied alongside Component 1 in the AS specification, and the pre-1956 text from Component 3 in the A level specification can be studied alongside Component 2 in the AS specification.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 7 1.2 Prior learning and progression Any requirements set for entry to a course following this specification are at the discretion of centres. It is reasonable to assume that many learners will have achieved qualifications equivalent to Level 2 at KS4. Skills in Numeracy/Mathematics, Literacy/English and Information Communication Technology will provide a good basis for progression to this Level 3 qualification. This specification builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills established at GCSE. Some learners may have already gained knowledge, understanding and skills through their study of drama at AS. This specification provides a suitable foundation for the study of drama and theatre or a related area through a range of higher education courses, progression to the next level of vocational qualifications or employment. In addition, the specification provides a coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study for learners who do not progress to further study in this subject. This specification is not age specific and, as such, provides opportunities for learners to extend their life-long learning. 1.3 Equality and fair access This specification may be followed by any learner, irrespective of gender, ethnic, religious or cultural background. It has been designed to avoid, where possible, features that could, without justification, make it more difficult for a learner to achieve because they have a particular protected characteristic. The protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010 are age, disability, gender reassignment, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. The specification has been discussed with groups who represent the interests of a diverse range of learners, and the specification will be kept under review. Reasonable adjustments are made for certain learners in order to enable them to access the assessments (e.g. Learners are allowed access to a Sign Language Interpreter, using British Sign Language). Information on reasonable adjustments is found in the following document from the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ): Access Arrangements and Reasonable Adjustments: General and Vocational Qualifications. This document is available on the JCQ website (www.jcq.org.uk). As a consequence of provision for reasonable adjustments, very few learners will have a complete barrier to any part of the assessment.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 8 2 SUBJECT CONTENT Overview This WJEC Eduqas specification is designed to promote a balance between practical theatre making and the theoretical understanding of drama and theatre. This stimulating and engaging course of study encourages learners to make connections between dramatic theory and their own practice. Learners study five texts (two complete texts and three key extracts from three different texts, studied in the context of the whole text) representing a range of social, historical and cultural contexts. The complete texts are studied for the written examination and the key extracts are divided between all three components. Learners also study two influential theatre practitioners (individuals or companies) and produce three s; one text, one devised and one based on a creative reinterpretation of an extract from a text. This content is divided as follows between the three components. Component 1: Theatre Workshop Learners participate in the creation, development and of: one reinterpretation of an extract from a text, using the working methods and techniques of either an influential theatre practitioner or a recognised theatre company. Component 2: Text in Action Learners participate in the creation, development and of: one devised piece using the working methods and techniques of a second different influential theatre practitioner or recognised theatre company one extract from a text in a contrasting style to the devised. Component 3: Text in Performance Learners explore: two complete texts from different historical periods one extract from a third contrasting text. In Components 1 and 2 learners are given the opportunity to develop performing and/or design skills as appropriate to their interests and the facilities available in the centre. Learners must choose one skill from the following list for each of Components 1 and 2. They may either choose the same skill for both Components 1 and 2, or a different skill for both Components 1 and 2: performing sound design lighting design set design (including props) costume design (including hair and make-up). Learners should adopt safe working practices in all components as directed by the centre.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 9 In addition to their own theatre making, learners also develop knowledge and understanding of the role of the director and participate in live theatre as an audience member. Knowledge, understanding and skills for A level Drama and Theatre The following knowledge, understanding and skills will be developed throughout this specification: the theatrical processes and practices involved in interpreting and performing theatre how conventions, forms and techniques are used in drama and live theatre to create meaning, including the: o use of space and spatial relationships on stage o relationships between performers and audience o design of set, costume, make-up, lighting, sound and props o performer s vocal and physical interpretation of character how creative and artistic choices influence how meaning is communicated to an audience how texts are constructed to be performed, conveying meaning through: o structure o language o stage directions o character construction o the style of text how texts are informed by their social, cultural and historical contexts, and are interpreted and performed for an audience the connections between theory and practice in a range of periods, theatrical styles, social, historical and cultural contexts how relevant research, independent thought and analysis of live theatre informs decision making in their own practical work how theatre makers collaborate to create theatre. Learners will also demonstrate the ability to: use the working methodologies of two theatre practitioners or theatre companies use theatrical techniques to create meaning in a live theatre context as theatre makers through: o research and development of ideas o interpretation of texts o devising o amending, rehearsing and refining work in progress o realising artistic intentions creatively and coherently through or design apply research to inform practical work to inform their own decision making and achieve clear dramatic and theatrical intentions analyse and evaluate the process of creating their own live theatre and the effectiveness of the final outcome interpret, analyse and evaluate live theatre by others.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 10 2.1 Component 1 Theatre Workshop Non-exam assessment: internally assessed and externally moderated by WJEC 20% of qualification 60 marks Learners are required to create a piece of theatre based on an extract from a text using the techniques and working methods of either an influential theatre practitioner or a recognised theatre company. Group arrangements Learners must work in groups of between two and five actors. In addition, each group may have up to four designers, each offering different design skills. Learners choosing design are required to work with a group of actors. However, it is not necessary for all acting groups to work with designers. Learners choosing design must choose one option from the following list: lighting design sound design set design (including props) costume design (including hair and make-up). Designers must contribute fully to the creation of the piece of theatre. Centres must give careful consideration to the combination of design skills in a particular group, and the choice of text and practitioner or company, ensuring that all learners are able to target AO1 and AO2 and demonstrate their highest skill level. Selecting a suitable text In total, across the three components in this specification, learners study five different texts. The texts chosen across the qualification must represent a range of social, historical and cultural contexts. In this component, each group must select one text from the list supplied in Appendix A and study a 10-15 minute extract from the text, within the context of the whole text. Each group of learners may choose a different extract or text, although different groups are also permitted to choose the same extract or text. Teachers should guide the process to ensure that the extract chosen is suitable for the combination of learners, including designers, in each group. Centres should also ensure that the chosen text and group size allow learners to adopt safe working practices. There are four stages to this component. 1. Researching a. Learners must study their chosen extract within the context of the whole text in order to re-interpret the text for. When researching the text learners should consider how texts are constructed to be performed, conveying meaning through: structure character construction.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 11 b. Learners must research the techniques and working methods of either an influential theatre practitioner or a recognised theatre company. A list of suitable theatre practitioners and theatre companies can be found in Appendix B and is intended as a guide only. Learners may choose a different practitioner or company. If in doubt about the suitability of the chosen practitioner or company, please contact WJEC for advice. In relation to the chosen practitioner or company, learners should explore: their historical, social and cultural context their theatrical purpose and practices their artistic intentions the innovative nature of their approach their working methods their theatrical style and use of conventions their collaboration with/influence on other practitioners. 2. Developing Learners participate in the creation and development of a piece of theatre based on a reinterpretation of the extract chosen for study in stage 1 (see page 12 for the length of the piece). This may involve reimagining the text in a different context, reinterpreting it for a different audience or any other kind of creative reworking. Learners must develop their piece using the working methods and techniques of the theatre practitioner or theatre company chosen for study in stage 1, and there must be recognisable features of their work evident in the piece. They are encouraged to 'deconstruct' the extract, as a way of exploring, even challenging established interpretations or artistic intentions and are encouraged to experiment. Editing, adding or taking out dialogue and/or characters is permitted as a way of creating learners' own, original artistic intentions. However, substantial and recognisable content from the original extract must be evident within the piece. Between 30% and 70% of the final piece created by the learners must consist of text from the 10-15 minute extract studied. The rest of the piece should grow out of the text studied. Learners should rehearse and refine their piece for. 3. Reflecting Learners are required to explain the process of creating their piece of theatre, outlining how they apply research from stage 1 to the development of the piece in stage 2. To this end, learners are required to produce a creative log which explains: 1. how ideas are created and developed to communicate meaning as part of the theatre making process, including: how conventions, forms and techniques are used in the piece how ideas are created, developed and refined 2. the connections between dramatic theory and practice, including research on the extract in context and research on the practitioner or company (see 1a and 1b) and how relevant research is applied to the piece.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 12 The creative log should fully justify decisions made during the process. However, it is not intended as a descriptive commentary of the rehearsal period or as an evaluation of the piece. Learners should select carefully the information which is relevant to points 1 and 2 on the previous page. The creative log should be between 1200 and 1500 words of annotation and/or continuous prose. Candidates may also produce their creative log as a suitably edited blog or as an audio-visual recording of between nine and twelve minutes. The creative log may contain some or all of the following, as appropriate to the skill offered: 4. Realising annotated research diagrams photographs sketches charts visual images digital media, including brief recordings of sections of a rehearsal or material appropriate to the skill area, e.g. sound clips. These should be no longer than one minute. Learners must realise their final or design. The timing of the piece is based on the number of actors in each group and the piece must be: 2 actors 5-10 minutes 3 actors 7-12 minutes 4 actors 9-14 minutes 5 actors 11-16 minutes. Each actor must be fully engaged with other performers on the stage for a minimum of 5 minutes in each in order to interact meaningfully. Design candidates are assessed on the design itself and technical equipment may be operated by someone else. The following list contains the minimum requirements for the design which must be realised in the live. Lighting design Learners must produce a lighting design complete with a ground-plan of the set/space with at least 8 different states including: colours (e.g. using filters, gels, glass gobos) intensities and fade durations lantern positions (with a clear acknowledgment of the different acting areas) use of lighting elements e.g. lanterns, gobos, barn doors, iris, colour scrollers, movers, prisms, motorised gobos, use of video (a.v.). Sound design Learners must produce a sound design with at least 8 different cues. The design should include: use of pre-recorded sound effects (possible use of music to create atmosphere) use of sound board/mixing desk to mix sound elements use of software to create sound e.g. Audacity, QLab use of sound elements e.g. pitch, volume, direction, duration, echo, reverb, distortion, layering of sound effects, montage.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 13 Set design (including props) Learners must produce a set design including relevant floor plans drawn to scale, showing from above the general layout of each set, and/or a digital scale model 3D design, including: the placement of the furniture and large props relevant set mock up for the including appropriate representations of levels, furniture, complex props functional props for the use of set elements e.g. levels, flats, audience position, design of the whole space, use of texture, colour, shape. Costume design (including hair and make-up) Learners must produce full costumes for a minimum of two actors, including: a set of drawings/designs make-up for the same two actors including hair design where relevant use of costume elements e.g. fabric, texture, colour, weight. Assessment Component 1 is internally assessed and externally moderated. It assesses: Stages 1-3: Researching, Developing and Reflecting (AO1, 30 marks) Create and develop ideas to communicate meaning as part of the theatre making process, making connections between dramatic theory and practice. The creative log and the or design are assessed together to produce one mark for each of AO1.1.a and AO1.1.b. Stage 4: Realising (AO2, 30 marks) Apply theatrical skills to realise artistic intentions in live. This is assessed through the final or design. All learners must produce: 1. a final or design recorded audio-visually 1 from the audience perspective 2. a creative process log. Guidance Additional information can be found in section 3.2, arrangements for non-exam assessment, and in the appendices which include: a list of texts for Component 1 (Appendix A) a list of suitable theatre practitioners and theatre companies (Appendix B) assessment grids for Component 1 (Appendix C) guidance for assessing Component 1 (Appendix D). 1 One recording of each group piece is required. It is not necessary to provide a recording for each individual learner. You may upload learners' work via the WJEC e-portfolio system or submit work on a DVD or memory stick if preferred. Any large artefacts, such as a costume or set model should be photographed or filmed. The artefact itself should be kept in the centre and will be requested if necessary.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 14 2.2 Component 2 Text in Action Non-exam assessment: externally assessed by a visiting examiner 40% of qualification 120 marks This component requires learners to engage with a stimulus to create two pieces of live theatre: one devised piece using the working methods and techniques of either an influential theatre practitioner or a recognised theatre company and one extract from a text in a different style to the devised piece. Group arrangements Learners may choose to be assessed on either acting or design. For each, learners work in groups of between two and four actors. In addition, each group may have up to two additional designers, each offering a different design skill. Learners choosing design are required to work with a group of actors. However, it is not necessary for all acting groups to work with designers. Learners choosing design must pick one option from the following list: lighting design sound design set design (including props) costume design (including hair and make-up). Designers must contribute fully to the creation of the piece of theatre. Centres must give careful consideration to the combination of design skills in a particular group, and the choice of text and practitioner or company and style, ensuring that all learners are able to target AO1 and AO2 and demonstrate their highest skill level. Selecting a suitable text In total, across the three components in this specification, learners study five different texts. The texts chosen across the qualification must represent a range of social, historical and cultural contexts. In this component, each group must choose one text. The text chosen must have been either professionally commissioned and/or professionally produced. There is a list of suitable texts in Appendix A and learners are also permitted to choose a text they are not studying for Component 3 from the list on page 19. Learners study a 10-15 minute extract from the text, within the context of the whole text. Each group of learners may choose a different extract or text, although different groups are also permitted to choose the same extract or text. Teachers should guide the process to ensure that the extracts chosen are suitable for the combination of learners, including designers, in each group. Centres should also ensure that the chosen text and group size allow learners to adopt safe working practices.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 15 There are four stages to this component. 1. Researching a. Learners must study their chosen extract within the context of the whole text in order to interpret the text for. When researching the text learners should consider how texts are constructed to be performed, conveying meaning through: structure character construction the style of the text. b. Learners are also required to research the techniques and working methods of either an influential theatre practitioner or a recognised theatre company. The chosen practitioner or company must be different to that chosen for Component 1. A list of suitable theatre practitioners and theatre companies can be found in Appendix B and is intended as a guide only. Learners may choose a different theatre practitioner or theatre company. If in doubt about the suitability of the chosen practitioner or company, please contact WJEC for advice. In relation to the chosen practitioner or company, learners should consider: their historical, social and cultural context their theatrical purpose and practices their artistic intentions the innovative nature of their approach their working methods their theatrical style and use of conventions their collaboration with/influence on other practitioners. c. Learners are required to participate as an audience member in viewing at least one live theatre production. It is recommended that learners take the opportunity to view a professional production; however, the work of amateurs may also be used. Centres should ensure that any work seen in preparation for this assessment is of suitable scope and quality to suit the requirements of the assessment. It need not be a production of the chosen text(s) or use the techniques of the chosen practitioner or company. Learners should consider: how elements of the live theatre production influence their own creative decisions including: o interpretation of text o use of design elements o performing styles. 2. Developing Learners participate in the creation and development of two pieces of theatre in response to a stimulus (see page 16 for the length of each piece). Learners will choose one stimulus from a choice of four supplied annually by WJEC. The stimuli will be released during the first week of June in the year before the assessment is due to be taken. Example stimulus materials can be found in Appendix E. Learners must produce: 1. a devised piece based on the work of the theatre practitioner or theatre company chosen for study in stage 1. Clear elements of the practitioner's or company s work must be evident in the piece.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 16 2. an extract from the text chosen for study in stage 1 in a style chosen by the learners. Learners may freely explore various stylistic concepts and need not be restricted by one particular style or influence. However, the piece must be in a different style to the devised piece. 3. Realising Both pieces of theatre must be performed live for the visiting examiner on a date agreed with WJEC. Learners are assessed on the process of creating and developing theatre as well as the final or design. The timings of the pieces are based on the number of actors in each group and each piece must be: 2 actors 5-10 minutes 3 actors 7-12 minutes 4 actors 9-14 minutes. Each actor must be fully engaged with other performers on the stage for a minimum of 5 minutes in each in order to be able to interact meaningfully. Design candidates are assessed on the design itself and technical equipment may be operated by someone else. However, their design must be realised in the live. Learners opting for design must give a 5-10 minute presentation of their design to the examiner. Presentation skills are not assessed; it is an opportunity for learners to explain and present their design to the examiner. The following list contains the minimum requirements which must be realised in each live. Lighting design Learners must produce a lighting design complete with a ground-plan of the set/space with at least 8 different states including: colours (e.g. using filters, gels, glass gobos) intensities and fade durations lantern positions (with a clear acknowledgment of the different acting areas) use of lighting elements e.g. lanterns, gobos, barn doors, iris, colour scrollers, movers, prisms, motorised gobos, use of video (a.v.). Sound design Learners must produce a sound design with at least 8 different cues. The design should include: use of pre-recorded sound effects (possible use of music to create atmosphere) use of sound board/mixing desk to mix sound elements use of software to create sound e.g. Audacity, QLab use of sound elements e.g. pitch, volume, direction, duration, echo, reverb, distortion, layering of sound effects, montage.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 17 Set design (including props) Learners must produce a set design including relevant floor plans drawn to scale, showing from above the general layout of each set, and/or a digital scale model 3D design including: the placement of the furniture and large props relevant set mock up for the including appropriate representations of levels, furniture, complex props. functional props for the use of set elements e.g. levels, flats, audience position, design of the whole space, use of texture, colour, shape. Costume design (including hair and make-up) Learners must produce full costumes for a minimum of two actors including: a set of drawings/designs make-up for the same two actors including hair design where relevant suggestions of costume for the rest of the actors in the use of costume elements e.g. fabric, texture, colour, weight. 4. Reflecting and evaluating Upon completion of the practical work, learners write one process and evaluation report on both pieces. Learners have one week to complete the report. The report has three sections and should be between 1300 and 1600 words. 1. Connections between theory and practice, (10 marks) including explanation of how: relevant research on the theatre practitioner or theatre company and chosen contrasting style informed their own practical work the stimulus was used to interpret the text and provide ideas for devised work. Section 1 may contain a limited amount of additional evidence such as photographs or diagrams where necessary to illustrate the connections between theory and practice. 2. Analysis and evaluation of process, (15 marks) including how: dramatic conventions or design techniques were used to create meaning the piece was refined and amended for live theatre influenced their own work. 3. Analysis and evaluation of the final or design to realise artistic intentions, (15 marks) including: the effectiveness of their performing or design skills the effectiveness of the practitioner or company and stylistic techniques in their own contribution to the success of the piece.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 18 Assessment Component 2 is externally assessed by a visiting examiner and assesses: Stages 1-2: Researching and Developing (AO1.1a, 20 marks, 10 marks for each piece) Create and develop ideas to communicate meaning as part of the theatre making process. This is assessed through both s or designs. Stage 3: Realising (AO2, 60 marks, 30 marks for each piece) Apply theatrical skills to realise artistic intentions in live. This is assessed through the final or design. Stage 4: Reflecting and Evaluating (AO1.1b, 10 marks and AO4.1a, 1b and 1d 30 marks) Making connections between theory and practice. Analyse and evaluate their own work. This is assessed through one process and evaluation report. All learners must: 1. realise both s or designs live for a visiting examiner. The centre must record all pieces audio-visually 2 from the audience perspective 2. complete a process and evaluation report which must be submitted with the recording within one week of the practical assessment. 3. give a 5-10 minute presentation of their design to the visiting examiner (design candidates only). Guidance Additional information about arrangements for non-exam assessment can be found in section 3.2, and in the appendices which include: a list of suitable texts (Appendix A) a list of suitable theatre practitioners and theatre companies (Appendix B) example stimulus materials for Component 2 (Appendix E) assessment grids for Component 2 (Appendix F). 2 One recording of each group piece is required. It is not necessary to provide a recording for each individual learner. You may upload learners' work via the WJEC e-portfolio system or submit work on a DVD or memory stick if preferred.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 19 2.3 Component 3 Text in Performance Written examination: 2 hours 30 minutes 40% of qualification 120 marks In this component, learners are required to study two complete texts and one extract from a third contrasting text. Centres are reminded that the five texts studied for this qualification as a whole must represent a range of social, historical and cultural contexts and centres should consider carefully their choice of texts in all components to ensure they cover a range of contexts. All texts listed for study will be reviewed periodically and updated when necessary. In Component 3, learners are given the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, understanding and skills in interpreting texts for in a written examination. Learners are encouraged to approach this component practically as an actor, designer and director, and as an informed member of a theatre audience. To this end, learners are required to view a minimum of two live theatre productions to inform their understanding. They may use the same or different productions as those seen for Component 2. Sections A and B Learners must choose one text written pre-1956 and one text written post-1956. Some questions will make specific references to extracts and therefore a clean copy (no annotation) of both texts must be taken into the examination. The following editions must be used in the examination: Pre-1956 (Choose one text from this list.) The Trojan Women, Euripides (OUP ISBN 978-0-19-953881-2) As You Like It, William Shakespeare (Penguin Classics ISBN 978-0- 141-39627-9) Hedda Gabler, Henrik Ibsen (Methuen ISBN 978-0-413-77070-7) Machinal, Sophie Treadwell (NHB ISBN 978-1-85459-211-8) Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Tennessee Williams (Penguin ISBN 978-0-141-19028-0) Post-1956 (Choose one text from this list.) Saved, Edward Bond (Methuen ISBN 978-0-413-31360-7) Accidental Death of an Anarchist, Dario Fo (Methuen ISBN 978-0-413-15610-5) Racing Demon, David Hare (Faber ISBN 0-571-16106-5) Love and Information, Caryl Churchill (NHB ISBN 978-1-84842-288-9) Chimerica, Lucy Kirkwood (NHB ISBN 978-1-84842-350-3)
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 20 Section C Learners are required to study a specified 10-15 minute extract from a third contrasting text: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, Mark Haddon, adapted by Simon Stephens (Bloomsbury, ISBN: 978-1-4081-7335-0). The extract must be studied within the context of the whole text and the examination questions will be based on a different 10-15 minute extract from the text each year. Details of the full 10-15 minute extract for each exam series will be published during the first week of March, in the year in which the assessment is due to take place. A short (approximately 2 pages) section from the 10-15 minute extract will be printed on the examination paper; therefore learners are not permitted to take a copy of this text into the examination. Assessment All three texts will be assessed in every exam series. However, the allocation of each complete text, pre-1956 and post-1956 texts, to sections A and B will vary from year to year. The 10-15 minute extract will always be assessed in section C. Learners must answer all questions in relation to their chosen text. In this examination learners are also assessed on their knowledge, understanding and use of specialist subject terminology. Learners should make detailed references to the texts in their answers. Note: a clean copy (no annotation) of the chosen set texts for Sections A and B must be taken into the examination. Centres must ensure that on entering the examination room, all candidate texts are checked to confirm that they are clean (with no annotation). WJEC must be notified of any infringements. Component 3 assesses the following in relation to the three texts. AO3: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of how drama and theatre is developed and performed. AO4: Analyse and evaluate the work of others. This assessment of AO3 and AO4 is divided between the three sections of the examination paper.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 21 Section A: 40 marks A series of structured questions on a specified extract from the chosen set text from either the pre-1956 list or the post-1956 list. Learners should consider: interpretation of character (e.g. through motivation and interaction) vocal and physical performing skills including interaction how texts are constructed to be performed, conveying meaning through o structure o language o stage directions interpretation of design elements including: o sound o lighting o set and props o costume, hair and make-up. Section B: 40 marks An essay question on the chosen set text from either the pre-1956 list or the post 1956 list, demonstrating how the text can be adapted for a contemporary audience. Learners should consider: the social, historical and cultural context of the text the influence of contemporary theatre practice how texts are constructed to be performed, conveying meaning through o structure o language o style of text how live theatre, seen as part of the course, influences their decision making and understanding of how drama and theatre is developed and performed how the text approaches its theme. Section C: 40 marks A question on the specified extract from The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time exploring how the text can be performed in the theatre. Learners will be expected to approach the text as theatre performers, directors and designers. Learners should consider: different types of stage character positioning and movement/proxemics design elements including: o sound o lighting o set and props o costume, hair and make-up how live theatre, seen as part of the course, influences their decision making and understanding of how drama and theatre is developed and performed.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 22 3 ASSESSMENT 3.1 Assessment objectives and weightings Below are the assessment objectives for this specification. Learners must: AO1 Create and develop ideas to communicate meaning as part of the theatre making process, making connections between dramatic theory and practice AO2 Apply theatrical skills to realise artistic intentions in live AO3 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of how drama and theatre is developed and performed AO4 Analyse and evaluate their own work and the work of others. The table below shows the weighting of each assessment objective for each component and for the qualification as a whole. AO1 AO2 AO3 AO4 Total Component 1 10% 10% 20% Component 2 10% 20% 10% 40% Component 3 30% 10% 40% Total 20% 30% 30% 20% 100%
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 23 3.2 Arrangements for non-exam assessment Suitability of texts Centres are required to complete a form specifying the texts and practitioners selected for all three components. This information must be submitted to WJEC by the end of January during the academic year in which the qualification is due to be taken. This is to ensure that all learners fulfil the requirement to cover a range of texts from different social, historical and cultural contexts and that all texts selected are sufficiently demanding for A level Drama and Theatre. In Components 1 and 2 texts must therefore be selected to provide scope for: candidates to demonstrate character interpretation/re-interpretation design candidates to demonstrate their chosen skill as stipulated in Sections 2.1 and 2.2 all candidates to reflect their chosen practitioner and style. All texts chosen must be ones which have been professionally commissioned or produced. If in doubt about the suitability of the text or the level of demand, please contact WJEC for advice. The selection of texts must be approved by the head of centre. Centres are also required to send the scripts of their re-interpreted pieces for Component 1 to the moderator with the lines taken from their selected extract highlighted, to aid the moderator in their understanding of how the text has been reinterpreted for and to ensure that they have used between 30% and 70% of text from the extract in the final piece. A checklist for teachers, including details of forms and key dates for Components 1 and 2, can be found on the WJEC Eduqas website. Component 1: Theatre Workshop 20% of qualification Component 1 is internally assessed and externally moderated by WJEC. Assessment Component 1 assesses AO1 and AO2 only. The maximum mark for Component 1 is 60. Teachers must use the assessment grids and guidance provided in Appendices C and D of this specification when conducting internal assessment of Component 1. There are two separate grids, one for performing candidates and one for design candidates. These are designed to present a system that links the assessment objectives to marks and helps to discriminate clearly between the varying levels of achievement. The mark schemes will be of most value when used in conjunction with guidance and assessed examples of work, which will be made available by WJEC to help centres identify the quality of work associated with the various mark bands. Cover sheets must be completed for each learner. The piece may be completed and assessed at any suitable time during the course.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 24 AO1 AO1 is marked out of 30. Teachers must consider the evidence presented in the creative log in conjunction with the evidence of the development process seen in the or design to award one mark for each of AO1.1a and AO1.1b. AO1.1a is out of 20 marks (creating and developing ideas to communicate meaning as part of the theatre making process). AO1.1b is out of 10 marks (making connections between dramatic theory and practice). If no creative log is submitted, learners must not be awarded higher than band 3 in the columns for both AO1.1a and AO1.1b. AO2 AO2 is marked out of 30 marks and is assessed through the or design only. In relation to design candidates, it is the design that is assessed and technical equipment may be operated by someone else. The length of each piece depends on the number of performing candidates in the group: 2 actors 5-10 minutes 3 actors 7-12 minutes 4 actors 9-14 minutes 5 actors 11-16 minutes. It is very unlikely that work which is under time will be sufficiently developed to be awarded a mark in the highest band. A penalty is incurred for work which falls under the minimum times. The teacher must deduct one mark from each group member, including design candidates, for each complete minute under the minimum time. Work which exceeds the time limit will also be penalised. One mark must be deducted from each group member, including design candidates, for each complete minute work exceeds the time limit. Supervision and Monitoring There is no restriction on the amount of time learners spend on developing, rehearsing and refining their work for Component 1, including the Creative log. Teachers may provide guidance and support to learners to ensure that they have a clear understanding of the requirements of the assessment and marking grids. Teachers may advise on the suitability of the choice of practitioner in combination with the choice of text. Once work is underway, feedback must be limited to general advice on what needs to be improved. Teachers must not provide specific guidance on how to make these improvements. During the working period, teachers must monitor progress of the work at least once in order to be able to authenticate the work as the learner s own. Once the work is finished and the final assessment made, no further amendments may be made.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 25 Assessment evidence and authentication It is important that assessment is rigorously monitored by centres to ensure that learners' work is their own. All learners are required to sign an authentication statement on the cover sheet endorsing the work as their own and centres must countersign that they have taken all reasonable steps to validate this. Authentication documentation must be completed by all learners, not just for those learners selected for the sample to be seen by the moderator. Malpractice discovered prior to the learner signing the declaration of authentication need not be reported to WJEC but must be dealt with in accordance with the centre s internal procedures. Every learner must produce the following evidence. 1. A creative process log (AO1) This must be monitored at least once by the teacher for authentication purposes. The teacher and learner will sign an authentication statement contained within the cover sheet. 2. A or design (AO1 and AO2) the final or design must be realised and recorded audiovisually learners, including design candidates, must be clearly identified by name and candidate number at the start of each group the recording of each piece must be unedited and of the complete from start to finish, filmed from the audience perspective all s must be submitted via e-portfolio or put onto one (or more than one) memory stick or DVD for the moderator. Moderation and submission of marks The internal completion date is determined by the centre and the centre must take into account time needed for internal assessment, internal moderation and submission of marks to WJEC. Individual cover sheets, available on the WJEC website, will be used for recording marks to be sent to the moderator. Centres must retain copies of all mark sheets sent to the moderator. It is essential that where there is more than one teacher in a centre, work from all teaching groups is standardised internally. This is designed to ensure that the final assessment reflects a single agreed standard for all teaching groups involved. Centres are required to submit marks for internally assessed work online by a specified date in May. When the marks have been submitted to WJEC, the online system will apply the sample formula based on the overall rank order for the total entry and immediately identify the sample of learners whose work is selected for moderation. All work for learners in the sample must be uploaded to e-portfolio or sent to the moderator by the required date in May. All necessary documentation can be found on the website.
A LEVEL DRAMA and THEATRE 26 As a result of the moderation, the marks of learners may be adjusted to bring the centre's marks into line with the national standard. If required, the moderator will ask for additional samples of work and if necessary, the work of all learners will be called for and externally moderated regardless of entry numbers. In this case, all of the work will be sent to the moderator. All centres will receive detailed feedback from the moderation in August. All work not submitted to WJEC should be retained by the centre until October of the year of certification. Component 2: Text in Action 40% of qualification Component 2 is externally assessed by a visiting examiner from WJEC on an agreed date between January and May. Assessment Component 2 assesses AO1, AO2 and AO4 (in part) and the maximum mark is 120. Part of AO1 and all of AO2 are assessed live by the visiting examiner. Each of the two pieces of theatre is marked out of 40, and the process and evaluation report is marked out of 40. AO1 AO1 is marked out of 30 (10 marks on each piece, AO1.1a, and 10 marks on the report, AO1.1b.) AO2 AO2 is out of 60 marks (30 marks on each piece) AO4 AO4 is out of 30 marks (assessed through the report) Supervision and Monitoring There is no restriction on the amount of time learners spend on developing, rehearsing and refining their work for Component 2, although the stimuli will not be released until the first week of June in the year prior to the assessment. Teachers may provide guidance and support to learners to ensure that they have a clear understanding of the requirements of the assessment and marking grids. Teachers may advise on the suitability of the choice of practitioner/style in combination with the choice of text. Teachers may also advise on the choice of live theatre to be seen as part of this component. Once practical work is underway, feedback must be limited to general advice on what needs to be improved. Teachers must not provide specific guidance on how to make these improvements. The process and evaluation report must be completed by the learner and teachers must see one draft in order to authenticate the work. However, teachers may not offer detailed feedback or advice on how to improve the work: they may not offer advice about the layout of the work, correct spelling, punctuation, grammar or other errors, or indicate omissions in content.